The UK-based International Lithium Association (ILiA) has struck a wide-ranging agreement with TDi Sustainability to explore standards and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in the lithium industry.

The project's goal is to support the industry's efforts to supply high-quality lithium sustainability and responsibly. The ILA said this would include developing a sharing a clear understanding of the critical issues in the lithium landscape so they can be addressed on a global level.

The ILiA's chairman and founder, Anand Sheth, said TDi Sustainability is ideally positioned to map the revised ESG practice for the mining industry.

"We have entered the ‘lithium century,' and the pivot to greener transport and more efficient energy use will be better for everyone," Sheth said.

Assheton Carter, chief executive officer of TDi Sustainability, also commented: "We are thrilled to be working with ILiA on this critical initiative.

"The profile of the lithium industry is rising rapidly, and with that comes greater scrutiny on its environmental sustainability and social practices.

"It is imperative that customers and the public have accurate information about this mineral critical for the green transition."

"However, as we move towards that goal, it is essential that the critically important lithium raw materials are sustainably produced."